Day 13: Essendon Guernsey Number 13

Don TheStat
Feb 28
2 min read

With 13 days remaining until Essendon’s 2026 campaign begins, the Don The Stat Guernsey Countdown rolls on with Number 13.

Guernsey 13 was first worn by Dave Smith during the 1911 finals series, the first season numbers appeared at Essendon. Smith was a member of the 1911 Premiership team and also represented Victoria in 46 first-class cricket matches, including two Tests for Australia.

One of the earliest long-term custodians was Joe Harrison, who played 64 games in the number between 1923 and 1927, including Essendon’s 1923 Premiership.

In the post-war era, Bert Harper wore Guernsey 13 during the 1946 Premiership season, before the number found new prominence in the 1980s.

Darren “Daisy” Williams became synonymous with the jumper from 1984 to 1989, playing 98 games and winning Premierships in 1984 and 1985. Highly respected internally, Williams was a vital part of Essendon’s dominance during that era.

The defining wearer of Guernsey 13 remains Michael Long. From 1991 to 2001, Long played 141 games, won Premierships in 1993 and 2000, and left a legacy that transcended football.

More recently, Orazio Fantasia and Nik Cox have carried the number into the modern era, adding speed, flair, and versatility to its history.

Milestone Players in Guernsey Number 13

50+ games
- Joe Harrison (64)
- Fred Gallagher (84)
- Darren Williams (98)
- Orazio Fantasia (72)
- Nik Cox (53)
- Andrew Lovett (68)
100+ games
- Michael Long (141)

Guernsey Number 13 stands as one of Essendon’s most culturally significant jumpers — worn by Premiership players, champions, and leaders on and off the field.